wynn hotels scandal

Wynn Resorts says it will “fully focus” on its operations and ambitious development projects in the wake of the resignation of Steve Wynn as chairman and CEO after accusations he harassed female employees. Wynn, 76, has been a leader—many say, the leader—in transforming Las Vegas from a place to gamble to an all-encompassing nexus not only for casinos but also luxury hotels, nonstop entertainment, fine dining and high-end shopping.

Wynn created many of the most-loved resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, including The Mirage, Treasure Island, Bellagio, Wynn Las Vegas and Encore. Wynn Resorts currently owns and operates Wynn and Encore Las Vegas, Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, Cotai.

The company pledged to complete construction of Wynn Paradise Park, a 38-acre lagoon to be edged by a casino, hotel and restaurants on the former Wynn golf course in Las Vegas; as well as Wynn Boston Harbor, which is scheduled to open in June 2019. It also recently announced it will build Wynn West, another resort and casino in Las Vegas.

Wynn denies all charges, which surfaced in an in-depth article in The Wall Street Journal late last month, that he engaged in sexual misconduct spanning decades.

In a statement, Wynn said a “rush to judgment” that “takes precedence over everything else, including the facts” impelled him to step down from leadership of the company he founded “and that I love.” Wynn’s statement concluded by addressing the employees who have made Wynn Resorts “the most admired resort company in the world. I want everyone to continue to be proud of this company and the many unique ways it will forever continue to delight guests.”

He has been replaced as CEO by Matt Maddox, who has been president of Wynn Resorts since 2013. Boone Wayson, who assumed the role of nonexecutive chairman of the board of directors, said in a statement the changes were made “with a collective heavy heart.”

The company noted that more than 40 percent of Wynn Las Vegas management are women, which it said is highest in the gaming industry. “Wynn Resorts remains as committed as ever to upholding the highest standards and being an inclusive and supportive employer,” said a statement announcing the management changes.

High Stakes for Wynn

Much is at stake for the company. After allegations about Wynn first became public, Massachusetts Gaming Commission said it would conduct its own investigation. The New York Times reported that the investigation would go forward despite Wynn’s resignation. Local government officials in Macau requested “detailed clarifications” about the Wynn investigation, and met with Wynn executives, said the Times.

Wynn Resorts’ stock price regained some ground in the wake of the announcement. It was trading at $200.60 on Jan. 25 but had fallen to $163.22 by Tuesday. At close of business yesterday, it stood at $177.32, a rebound of 8.6 percent.

Planners React

Asked for comment, a spokesperson for Meeting Planners International (MPI) pointed to its Principles of Professionalism, which were revised in January, and state, “MPI will not tolerate sexual harassment, whether by employees, members, partners, directors, customers or vendors.”

An outreach to meeting planners brought this reaction from Andrea Cannistraci, president and founder of Andgreat in Hermosa Beach, California: “I do not have a group committed to the Wynn for 2018; however, in light of the recent alleged sexual misconduct by Wynn, I will not be submitting RFPs to his properties, and my clients will not likely consider supporting his properties. I’m a female business owner and find the allegations sickening.”

She wasn’t alone in taking such a stand. “I won’t be recommending any clients to Wynn Resorts,” said Greg Jenkins, partner at Bravo Productions in Long Beach, California. “While Wynn has resigned from his role at the organization, he still is one of two—his wife being the second—of the largest shareholders of Wynn Resorts, which means he still reaps many of the financial benefits from his bad behavior—and that’s something I personally can’t support.”

Other planners were, if not sympathetic with Wynn, more philosophical. “Yes, we are planning an event at Wynn this year, and nothing we hear is much of a surprise these days—only disappointing,” said Barbara Spear-Prokopik, president of LT Planning & Incentives in the Greater New York City area. “No other Las Vegas property offers better service or quality.” She also pondered whether similar problems will happen at other properties.

Finally, Gwen Knight, a Wichita, Kansas-based independent, said, “I don’t think my client would change their program due to this situation. Logistics and costs are more important to attendees. However, if we had a signed contract—or were considering a proposal—with a Wynn property, I would expect my sales contact to address the situation up front, thereby ensuring us that our program would continue undisturbed and that the hotel would be safe and in ‘expected’ condition.”

 

Food trucks are fun, convenient, serve delicious food at a fraction of the cost of a sit-down meal, and are a great addition to any event. Is it any wonder, then, the concept has caught on big time, with an ever-expanding fleet of these kitchens-on-wheels in operation on any given day? Here are some mobile catering stars across the country.

Rasta Rita Margarita Truck, Southern California

Established in 2006, Rasta Rita is a vintage GMC margarita truck serving up fresh, organic margaritas and specialty cocktails in Southern California. Rasta Rita offers basic and premium packages that include handcrafted margaritas made by a professional mixologist. And, to keep hunger at bay, their amigos at Rasta Taco Catering might be just the ticket.

Koi Fusion, Portland, Oregon

Koi Fusion offers Korean food with a twist. Think Seoul sliders and kimchi quesadillas. The company currently serves the greater Portland area and has plans to expand across Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Koi Fusion offers the option of a hosted truck event, where the host covers the cost; or, alternatively, an option where the guests pay for their own food.

Phil’s Steaks, New York City

Since 2012, Phil’s Steaks has been serving up authentic Philly cheesesteaks and Phil’s fries to the New York masses. They pile up premium beef on Amoroso rolls, straight from Philly. Their menu also includes vegetarian options.

Voodoo Van, Portland, Oregon

Also in Portland, the Voodoo Van is a doughnut shop to go. The Voodoo Van serves the Portland metro area, and farther afield for an additional fee. The company caters occasions ranging from corporate events to block parties, and everything in between. With its creative and colorful offerings, the Voodoo Van is sure to add a novel, not to mention super-tasty, element to your event.

Babycakes, Chicago, Illinois

Rolling up in their bright red truck, fondly named Sweetheart, Babycakes serves up breakfast in the Chicago area, 24/7. The Babycakes pancake party features three pancake flavor options, plus two sides. Choose from classic buttermilk, cinnamon roll, and for the more savory-minded, the “grilled cheese experience.”

 

Simply Divine, Orlando, Florida

Voted Best Food Truck in Orlando 2015, Chef Edgar and the team at Simply Divine will create a bespoke menu for your event, based on your requirements, using fresh and flavorful ingredients. Their menu includes many Spanish-inspired dishes, including arroz con pollo and ropa vieja. Simply divine, indeed!

Tourism Australia’s new campaign slogan is “Australia, it’s a place you feel,” but, the country is actually a multisensory destination. Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, taps into all five senses—and adds a bonus dose of Aussie humor.

Sight

The place to see and be seen is Elizabeth Quay, walking distance from Perth Exhibition and Convention Centre. Jam-packed with hotels, dining and entertainment, Perth’s newest riverfront tourist precinct opened in January 2016 and will be complete in 2020. Several outdoor event spaces are available to rent. The bustling hotel scene there includes The Ritz-Carlton at The Towers, which is estimated to open next year with 204 guest rooms and DoubleTree by Hilton, which Is estimated to be complete in late 2019 with 229 guest rooms.

The six-star Crown Towers Perth is shining bright at the ultimate meeting host site and luxury accommodations. It currently stakes a claim as the city’s largest hotel, and accommodates up to 3,000 in its mega-sized ballroom.

If your meeting agenda allows some flexibility, a side trip to Esperance, an eight-hour drive or two-hour flight from Perth, is worth a visit to enjoy the must-see bubblegum Pink Lake.

Sound

Photo of Elizabeth Quay, Perth, by Illustrations Photography

Ring-a-ding-ding! Bring your event to The Bell Tower in Perth’s Barrack Square, where guests will enjoy listening to Swan Bells chiming. Private event space is available and behind-the-scenes group tours are offered to learn the history and art of bell ringing.

Be careful not to burst an eardrum: Decibel levels just increased in Perth from fans cheering at the brand-new 60,000-seat Optus Stadium, which opened in January. Perth’s footie team, the Eagles, will make it their new home, and it hopes to attract other major sporting events to the area. Conference space for up to 2,000 guests and behind-the-scenes tours are available.

Smell

Photo of Kings Park and Botanic Garden 

One of the world’s largest inner-city parks can be found in Perth. Breathe in the aromas of blooming flowers at Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Set up a picnic lunch for your group, overlooking the Swan River and city skyline.

Wake up and smell the coffee along Fremantle’s cafe-lined Cappuccino Strip, which is starkly different from Perth because no skyscrapers are in sight. It’s a 30-minute drive southwest of the city, and visitors can enjoy al fresco dining at Italian and seafood restaurants, drink at local microbreweries and listen to live music in this fun pocket of town.

Taste

Photo credit: Sean Scott Photography

Sip, Sip, Sip! A 25-minute drive east of Perth CBD, a bustling commerce and culture hub, is Western Australia’s oldest wine region, Swan Valley, where grapes have been turned into wine for about 180 years. More than 150 tasting rooms, eateries and drinking holes can be found along its wine trail.

Touch

Get sand between your toes at the 19 white-sand beaches Perth has to offer. Take a high-speed ferry ride aboard the Rottnest Express from terminals at Barrack Street Jetty, Fremantle and Northport to this island paradise. Late last year, while in Perth for the Hopman Cup—a tennis tournament leading up to the Australian Open—Roger Federer took time off the court to snap a selfie with a smiling Quokka there.

Lindsay-Hardee_redit-Walt-Disney-World-Swan-and-Dophin-Resort

Lindsay Hardee

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando appointed Lindsay Hardee group sales manager. Most recently, Hardee served as catering and convention services coordinator for the resort.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Dawn-Aronson_High-Res_Credit-Kokua-Hospitality

Dawn Aronson

Dawn Aronson was named director of sales and marketing at Carmel Mission Inn in Carmel, California. Aronson brings 28 years of hospitality experience to the role, and will be tasked with planning and implementing sales, marketing and product development programs for the property’s meetings and convention business.

Carmel Mission Inn

Sandi-Harvey_High-Res

Sandi Harvey

Meet AC in Atlantic City, New Jersey, named Sandi Harvey vice president of sales. Harvey brings to the role more than 25 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. Most recently, Sandi held the role of senior director of sales at Meet AC.

Meet AC

Nour-Asfari

Nour Asfari

Nour Asfari was appointed area director of revenue at global hospitality company Benchmark in Orlando. Asfari brings more than 10 years of experience to the role and has previously served at TravelClick and Sage Hospitality.

Benchmark

Do you have an announcement about a new executive-level job appointment? Email us the good news at [email protected].

Helen-Watson_The-Adelphi

Helen Watson

The Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga Springs, New York, appointed Helen Watson general manager. Watson brings to the role more than 20 years of hospitality experience. Watson previously held a leadership role within the concierge department at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

The Adelphi Hotel

Jason-Kern

Jason Kern

Jason Kern was appointed general manager of Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort in Florida. Kern will be tasked with overseeing the hiring of new staff and day-to-day operations at the resort.

Nathan-DeWindt

Nathan DeWindt

Benchmark named University of California, Berkeley graduate Nathan DeWindt director of operations at Hotel Contessa in San Antonio. Most recently, DeWindt was front office director for Grand Pacific Resorts.

Benchmark Resorts & Hotels

Tushaar-Agrawal

Tushaar Agrawal

Tushaar Agrawal was named hotel manager of Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Agrawal joins Gaylord National with more than 21 years of business experience, 11 of which were in the hospitality industry.

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center

Do you have an announcement about a new executive-level job appointment? Email us the good news at [email protected].

The Philadelphia Eagles technically won Super Bowl LII. But from an event planner’s perspective, this was far from the only win. Parties, charitable panels, VIP lounges, commercials and more were all critical components of the event. So, from a planner’s perspective, who were the big winners of the Super Bowl and what did they teach us?

Pre- or Post-Party: AT&T’s DirecTV Now Super Saturday Night

The night before the game, AT&T linked up with DirectTV to give attendees a JLo-inspired experience of a lifetime. The party provided an immersive virtual trip through Puerto Rico’s rain forest, an opportunity to participate in Jennifer Lopez’s “Armor, Armor, Armor” music video and a live concert featuring the latest laser effects.

Planner takeaway: Immersive, technological experiences are thriving. These are most engaging when in-keeping with the brand and event theme. As with this example, an event benefits from components working together to make an overall experience, instead of using unrelated micro-experiences.

VIP Program: Endeavor’s Super Bowl Lounge

Global marketing group Endeavor followed up its Sundance and Wimbledon spaces with another huge hit. For the Super Bowl, the brand created a lounge stocked with arcade games, a sm’ores bar and indulgent bites such as mini-donuts and mac and cheese bites. They also treated guests, clients and partners to spa and salon treatments. The dream-like lounge was open Feb. 1– 3.

Planner takeaway: When creating a VIP package, amenities that appeal on a multisensory level are memorable.  Stunning decor and delicious refreshments are expected from a VIP service. By also incorporating arcade games and a variety of services, Endeavor created a more comprehensive event.

Commercial: It’s a Tie: Tide and Amazon Alexa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gGXnE1Dbh0

Blogs can debate all day about which ads were best, but Tide and Amazon Alexa’s commercials definitely made the cut. In Tide’s memorable mini-production, Stranger Things star David Harbour turned the regular ad format on its head. In the clip, he appears to be in commercials for cars, beer, jewelry, fitness programs and other products. At the end he reveals that this is a Tide ad, remarking, “Does this make every Super Bowl ad a Tide ad?”

Another fine piece of advertising came from Amazon’s Alexa. The clip poses the question, “What if the personal assistant’s voice was replaced by Anthony Hopkins, Rebel Wilson or Cardi B?” As these scenarios play out, each celebrity displays their distinct personality.

Planner takeaway: Know, and properly use, your influencers. In these instances, celebrities do more than simply make an appearance or promote product purchases: They play with ideas. In doing so, their personalities emerge, diverting from the fact that they each have been hired as a spokesperson.

Charitable Endeavor: Microsoft’s Create Change Panel

NFL players Larry Fitzgerald, Von Miller, Greg Olsen and Russell Wilson participated in Microsoft’s Create Change Panel on Feb. 1, at the company’s store at Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. The athletes held a discussion about their charitable efforts and detailed how Microsoft Surface Technology supports their philanthropic work. At the end of the panel, $25,000 was donated to First Down Fund.

Planner takeaway: Taking some time to inform attendees of the recipient and progress of a charitable cause will help encourage participation. Even if donations aren’t made instantly, it’s worth communicating them and planting the seed.

Technology: Pepsi’s Generations Pop-Up

The Pepsi Go Back/Pepsi Generations concept was probably better virtually than as a commercial. At its pop-up exhibit Feb. 2–3, the brand offered the full experience of traveling back in time, with the storyline also used in the commercial. The VR experience transported users to two past Pepsi commercials that were played during Super Bowls. The service was also provided to at-home views using Google Cardboard or Daydream View goggles, as well.

Planner takeaway: Nostalgia and tech can be an extremely appealing convergence, appealing to multiple sentiments. Part of branding is being anchored in a persona, much of which is often established throughout time.

More pets than ever are flying from here to there. That is why Delta Air Lines is clarifying the rules for in-flight support animals. Are documents necessary, are there extra forms to fill out, do they need to have obedience training? Here are some of the answers to your questions about protocol for boarding service animals.

The Difference Between Service and Emotional Support Animals

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, service animals are not the same as emotional support animals. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as one “that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.” An emotional support animal (ESA), also known as a therapy or comfort animal, does not fall under the ADA’s guidelines; ESAs are untrained and “provide comfort just by being with a person.” While states may have their own laws regarding ESAs, they are not protected by the ADA.

Delta’s Change of Mind

Following problems with pets soiling carpets and biting strangers, Delta has decided to change its protocol regarding support animals beginning March 1. “The rise in serious incidents involving animals in flight leads us to believe that the lack of regulation in both health and training screening for these animals is creating unsafe conditions across U.S. air travel,” said John Laughter, senior vice president of corporate safety, security and compliance for Delta Air Lines.

Owners of ESAs must now sign a statement vouching that their animal has been trained to behave itself and is not a threat to other passengers. However, Delta uses the honor system—no proof is required that a dog attended obedience school. Delta will require proof of health or vaccinations 48 hours in advance. A completed support animal form and letter from a professional is still necessary.

How Other Airlines Handle This

Some airlines have enacted stricter rules regarding ESAs on flights. Most national airlines require no documentation for service animals and recommend “identifiers such as identification cards, presence of harnesses, tags or ‘the credible verbal assurances of a qualified individual with a disability using the animal,’” reads JetBlue Airways’ website. Documentation is only necessary should the credibility of verbal assurance come into question.

However, JetBlue Airways, Alaska Airlines, Virgin America, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines require documentation from a mental health professional within a year of the travel date and 48 hours’ notice of all ESAs. Verbal credibility, tags or harnesses are required for service animals. American Airlines’ website provides forms to request accommodation for both service animals and ESAs.

General Guidelines

If you are flying with a support animal, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Have a harness, tags and identification ready for your service animal. This will help prevent potential confrontation.
  2. Be prepared to answer questions regarding the tasks your support animal performs.
  3. For all ESAs, have your letter of documentation ready.
  4. Let the attendants at the check-in counter know about your support animal.
  5. Alert attendants at your gate—they may recommend pre-boarding.

There’s a lot at “steak” for Philadelphia during this Sunday’s Big Game, and it could only be cheesesteak. A Boston-area Kimpton hotel has challenged their brand’s Philly counterpart to give up their signature, artery-clogging sandwich and eat healthier “when” the Patriots beat the Eagles in Super Bowl LII.

Joe Capalbo, director of operations for Kimpton Hotels of New England and general manager of the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel in Cambridge, Massachusetts

“Philly’s a city known for cheesesteaks, hoagies, bacon grease popcorn, cream cheese and soft-pretzels,” says Joe Capalbo, director of operations for Kimpton Hotels of New England and general manager of the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel in Cambridge, Massachusetts. “It’s time we showed them what makes a true champion, on and off the field.”

In alignment with Kimpton Marlowe and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s commitment to health and fitness, Capalbo is challenging the general managers in the opposing city to follow Brady’s strict diet for 12 days. If the Eagles lose, he pledges to send his counterparts copies of Brady’s book, The TB12 Method: How to Achieve a Lifetime of Sustained Peak Performance or force them to order TB12 Performance Meals for 12 days. He’s looking forward to following along with a trail of video evidence on his social media feed.

James Adamson, general manager of Kimpton Monaco

Kimpton Monaco in Philly tried to deflate Capalbo’s confidence with the classic response, “Yo, Adrian!” If the Eagles fly away with the championship ring, “Joe will have to do a 5 a.m. Run with the GM along the Charles [River] every day for 12 days in a Rocky robe that reads ‘Balboa’ on the back,” retorted James Adamson, general manager, and Peter DiOrio, assistant general manager.

Capalbo is no rookie in betting wars with rival Kimpton cities. In 2015, he won a wager with Seattle after the Pats beat the Seahawks. “Kimpton is a playful, whimsical brand, and we live for fun programs like this. Thankfully, given the Patriots’ winning track record and our other championship teams here in Boston, I get to do this fairly often!” Capalbo says. “And come out on the winning side.”

Kickoff is only days away. Vegas oddsmakers are picking the Pats. Some pundits say the Eagles will win big. Someone is going on a diet or going on a run.

It’s the last straw for hotels, restaurants and bars across the country. They agree it’s time to stop sucking. Specifically, it’s time to stop sucking on single-use plastic straws.

Led by Lonely Whale, a nonprofit organization, the #stopsucking movement is a global campaign to reduce plastic waste. Hotels such as 21c Museum Hotels, the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa and the Kimpton Hotel Allegro in Chicago have already deemed petroleum-based straws outdated—and have begun using more eco-friendly alternatives.

Adrian Grenier, actor and cofounder of Lonely Whale, began the campaign, which is known as Strawless Ocean. “Conservatively, you can guess that Americans will use on average two plastic straws a day, so 500 million is an accurate estimate,” he says. “But I challenge you to start paying attention to the straws you get in your iced coffee, smoothies, soda and cocktails. When I’m in New York or L.A., the number of plastic straws I receive is often closer to 10 a day.”

The app Litterati says straws are the sixth-most common type of liter, often endangering marine life and polluting water. Lonely Whale estimates that if we continue on this path, plastic will outweigh fish by 2050. Weighty stuff, right?

Although you may not have thought about it before now, meeting and event planners are often big culprits. After all, it’s the utensil most hotels, venues, vendors and catering companies offer. But this can change.

Are You up to the Challenge?

The Strawless Ocean website outlines a challenge to help spread the word. Here are the options to help get the word out to the meetings and events industry.

Option 1: Direct Challenge

The website gives you a unique challenge link. Simply post a video, selfie or any photo that helps challenge a specific business on any social media. Think of this one as a call-out.

The text template offered on the site:

Hey @NAME, could you #stopsucking already? [INCLUDE YOUR CHALLENGE LINK]

Option 2: Awareness Challenge

Similar to the first option, you’re asked to post on social media. This time the prompt proposes a video, selfie or photo of a strawless drink or an ocean snapshot. This aims to inform your followers why the movement is significant.

The text template offered on the site:

Did you know we use 500 million plastic straws every day in the U.S.? Plastics are killing our ocean. #StopSucking and save the ocean here: [INCLUDE YOUR CHALLENGE LINK]

All About the Alternatives

Can you conceive of a world without plastic straws? No problem. All these alternative straws work just as well:

  • Paper
  • Metal
  • Reed
  • Bamboo
  • Glass
  • Steel and silicone

So at this point, it should be clear. Single-use-plastic straws are harmful and unnecessary. As a meeting or event planner, you’re hosting events that likely involve tons and tons of drinks. Make a change in a positive direction. Make a point to your vendors and attendees. Not only will they take note, many will likely stop sucking, too.

You’ve been officially challenged.

Does the thought of eating bugs make your skin crawl? That might change soon.

Earlier this month, Justin Timberlake served ants and grasshoppers at an album listening party. And it’s quite common globally. Insect-eating, or entomophagy, is big in most parts of the world, including Central and South America as well as Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Now chew on this—many types are healthy, as they are high in protein, healthy fats and fiber. It’s also a fantastic eco-friendly option. Compared to the meat industry, entomophagy leads to more efficient feed conversion, less greenhouse gases, better water conservation, improved animal welfare and reduced risk of disease.

Still unconvinced? Let’s dig deeper with six U.S. restaurants cooking up the delicacy. Who knows, you might end up enlisting one for catering, using them as a venue or even stopping by for a bug bite.

Don Bugito—San Francisco

Don Bugito, also known as the Prehispanic Snackeria, focuses on planet-friendly protein snacks made from food native to the American continent. The San Francisco-based company transforms insects using a wide variety of flavor notes. From spicy chili to sweet chocolate, their products are an eccentric, eco-conscious and delectable addition to any swag bag.

2. Hugo’s—Houston

Housed in a restored Latin building, Hugo’s uses an authentic Mexican style technique. All food components are made from scratch. When it comes to bugs, grasshoppers go gourmet as they’re sauteed in a pan and served with guacamole, tortillas and chipotle tomatillo salsa. Hugo’s offers off-site catering and can host special events.

3. Sushi Mazi—Portland

Sushi Mazi is a local family restaurant, dishing out some of the best sushi in the city. The culinary team values experimentation with new methods and ingredients. Their unique grasshopper sushi is widely praised, and pairs perfectly with sake. Although they don’t take reservations, groups can comfortably sit in the space. Just be sure to get there early!

4. Toloache—New York City

Owned by chef Julian Medina, Toloache is a colorful, contemporary Mexican bistro in Manhattan. Get a crunchy dose of bugs with their Oaxacan-style dried grasshoppers, onions, cilantro, jalapeno and salsa verde tacos. If drinks are what you seek, Toloache provides an impressive selection of tequilas, imaginative margaritas and mezcales (worm not included).

5. Nue—Seattle

Nue describes its mission: “As avid travelers and insatiable eaters, we set out to build the same kind of casual gathering, food and drink place we consistently frequent while abroad, but for whatever reason, can never quite find back home.”

Nue’s Thai Mang Da Na is the best example of this approach. Forewarned on the menus as “for the ‘adventurous’”, the dish is made of Thai water beetles with hints of fruit, flower, candy and salt.

6. Bug-Appetit—New Orleans

Located in the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, Bug-Appetit allows guests to observe chefs incorporating bugs. Now through Lundi Gras, the cafe is serving Cricket King Cakes, which is a signature delicacy of the carnival season. Team building can begin with an Audubon Nature Institute visit and end with a shared, novel experience.